Which monocular? (1 Viewer)

[alpse]

Hello,
Few days ago I decided to buy a monocular for observing the nature, bird watching and looking closer the animals. As I do researches I got confused so much and I think I need some help on deciding the right monocular.

I'm waiting for your comments and experiences. If you have any suggestions please tell me.(under the $60)
Regards


1. Vortex 8x25 or 10x25 Solo Monocular (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/676673-USA/Vortex_S825_Solo_8x25_Monocular.html)
2.Vanguard MZ 6-12x25 Monocular(http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/706694-USA/Vanguard_MZ_61225C_MZ_6_12x25_Monocular.html)
3. Vanguard 8x25 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/583144-USA/Vanguard_DM_8250_8x25_DM_Monocular.html)
4.Brunton Echo 10-30x21 Zoom Monocular (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ..._f_echozoom_Echo_10_30x21_Zoom_Monocular.html)
5.Vixen Optics 7-21 x 21 Monocular(http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/761551-USA/Vixen_Optics_11483_7_21_x_21_Monocular.html)

 

[Binastro]

Hi alpse,
Possibly 1). Vortex Solo.

 

[PeterPS]

I have experimented with monocs as an alternative to compact bins and I can tell you the monocs are much harder to use...the view through them is flat and objects are difficult to locate. You should also learn how to use a monoc while keeping both eyes open, or else you will get eye strain. Given all these facts my suggestion is that you increase your budget and go for ZenRay 8x42, which is the best monoc under 150$ I have come across. Peter.

 

[alpse]

I have experimented with monocs as an alternative to compact bins and I can tell you the monocs are much harder to use...the view through them is flat and objects are difficult to locate. You should also learn how to use a monoc while keeping both eyes open, or else you will get eye strain. Given all these facts my suggestion is that you increase your budget and go for ZenRay 8x42, which is the best monoc under 150$ I have come across. Peter.

Thank Binastro and Pesto for your replies. I didn't know that detail. Should I start with a binocular for this business ? I did some research and found a few binocular. How is the Bushnell or Leupold btw , is it better than Nikon? I'm not sure the waterproof ability very important or not, can I use non-waterproof in the snowy days? Waiting for comments again
Thanks lot

1.http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/910765-REG/nikon_8245_8x42_aculon_a211.html
2.http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/314389-REG/Olympus_118760_10x50_Trooper_DPS_I.html or http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/314388-REG/Olympus_118755_8x40_Trooper_DPS_I.html
3. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/671416-USA/Nikon_7279_Travelite_VI_12x25_Binocular.html (this is a bit expensive for me,for starter I think)

You can share binocs suggestions with me

 

[cnick6]

Yes, having owned the Leica 8x20 monocular (probably the best you can buy) it still was rather difficult to use for any kind of nature-viewing as the focus knob is also on the part you're trying to hold still. It's sound worse than it is but if you think about the "speed" at which animals can move, you'll understand how binoculars are very necessary.

I haven't really looked at the cheaper-end of the binocular spectrum but I'm sure others can point you in the right direction.

 

[cnick6]

I decided to buy a monocular for observing the nature, bird watching and looking closer the animals.

1. Vortex 8x25 or 10x25 Solo Monocular (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/676673-USA/Vortex_S825_Solo_8x25_Monocular.html)
2.Vanguard MZ 6-12x25 Monocular(http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/706694-USA/Vanguard_MZ_61225C_MZ_6_12x25_Monocular.html)
3. Vanguard 8x25 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/583144-USA/Vanguard_DM_8250_8x25_DM_Monocular.html)
4.Brunton Echo 10-30x21 Zoom Monocular (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ..._f_echozoom_Echo_10_30x21_Zoom_Monocular.html)
5.Vixen Optics 7-21 x 21 Monocular(http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/761551-USA/Vixen_Optics_11483_7_21_x_21_Monocular.html)

Drop the Brunton from your list. These are pretty bad optically. Vortex has very nice optical quality and is sharp from edge to edge. I owned one for a short time. I've used Vanguard binoculars but not their monoculars so I can't really comment. They should be of decent quality however.

If you end up going the monocular route then avoid any with a "tactical" view or any kind of reticle. These will completely distract from your view.

 

[alpse]

Yes, having owned the Leica 8x20 monocular (probably the best you can buy) it still was rather difficult to use for any kind of nature-viewing as the focus knob is also on the part you're trying to hold still. It's sound worse than it is but if you think about the "speed" at which animals can move, you'll understand how binoculars are very necessary.

I haven't really looked at the cheaper-end of the binocular spectrum but I'm sure others can point you in the right direction.

Thank you so much for information dear cnick6. Actually, I liked the Nikon 8x25 Travelite because of its dimension and weight. I'm waiting for reviews about Travelite VI. I hope it is going to be nice start if I can get positive review ofc

 

[cnick6]

Thank you so much for information dear cnick6. Actually, I liked the Nikon 8x25 Travelite because of its dimension and weight. I'm waiting for reviews about Travelite VI. I hope it is going to be nice start if I can get positive review ofc

Sure no problem. Never tried that kind of binocular -- the Travelite. Just looks a bit goofy. I guess I just prefer the traditional two-barrel design.

I would recommend getting at least a 30-32mm objective but it's up to you of course. (The larger objective will do better in low-light conditions.)

This site might drive you crazy but I like it. A lot of excellent reviews here:

http://www.allbinos.com/binoculars_reviews.html

It's probably more than you want to spend but something like the Nikon Monarch 7 8x30 or Prostaff 7s 8x30 would be a good starting point. (The M7 is pretty good but at a much higher cost.)

http://www.allbinos.com/272-binoculars_review-Nikon_Monarch_7_8x30.html

http://www.allbinos.com/280-binoculars_review-Nikon_Prostaff_7s_8x30.html

 

[oldfortyfive]

I have the little 5x Ziess and a couple of the Vortex 8x ones They work well when there are space or weight constraints.

 

[cnick6]

I have the little 5x Ziess and a couple of the Vortex 8x ones They work well when there are space or weight constraints.

I never got a chance to try the Zeiss. It does look pretty cool. It'd be great for a shirt pocket.

I have to carry a bag with me (almost every day) so I have no excuse not to carry the M7 8x30.

Using both eyes is so much more relaxing!

 

[OPTIC_NUT]

Drop the Brunton from your list. These are pretty bad optically. Vortex has very nice optical quality and is sharp from edge to edge. I owned one for a short time. I've used Vanguard binoculars but not their monoculars so I can't really comment. They should be of decent quality however.

If you end up going the monocular route then avoid any with a "tactical" view or any kind of reticle. These will completely distract from your view.

I have noticed that with Brunton, especially the focusing slop.

It was mentioned that it's harder to 'find' things in monoculars.
The effect varies, but using a lower powered monocular really helps
you target things quicker. Vixen has a very
enjoyable 6x16 with a 9.3 degree field. The fov and lower power make it
fast to bear on the target. This is the perfect 'quick, look at that critter'
or 'where is that steet' pocket scope. I carry a 6x16 wide whenever I'm
not packing binocs. Great for tracking the fisher-cat down the street
when I'm walking.
Extremely effective for such a small size.

 

[alpse]

Sure no problem. Never tried that kind of binocular -- the Travelite. Just looks a bit goofy. I guess I just prefer the traditional two-barrel design.

I would recommend getting at least a 30-32mm objective but it's up to you of course. (The larger objective will do better in low-light conditions.)

This site might drive you crazy but I like it. A lot of excellent reviews here:

http://www.allbinos.com/binoculars_reviews.html

It's probably more than you want to spend but something like the Nikon Monarch 7 8x30 or Prostaff 7s 8x30 would be a good starting point. (The M7 is pretty good but at a much higher cost.)

http://www.allbinos.com/272-binoculars_review-Nikon_Monarch_7_8x30.html

http://www.allbinos.com/280-binoculars_review-Nikon_Prostaff_7s_8x30.html

I have noticed that with Brunton, especially the focusing slop.

It was mentioned that it's harder to 'find' things in monoculars.
The effect varies, but using a lower powered monocular really helps
you target things quicker. Vixen has a very
enjoyable 6x16 with a 9.3 degree field. The fov and lower power make it
fast to bear on the target. This is the perfect 'quick, look at that critter'
or 'where is that steet' pocket scope. I carry a 6x16 wide whenever I'm
not packing binocs. Great for tracking the fisher-cat down the street
when I'm walking.
Extremely effective for such a small size.

Thank you for comments friends.
Unfortunately cnick6, there are a few options in Turkey and also very expensive when you compare them with the prices in USA. A monoc or binocs that is about $100-$150 in USA, $250+ in Turkey( 250x2.79=700 Turkish Liras, minimum wage rate is 900 TL=322$) and if the item a bit heavy-more than 1kg- shipping cost going to be $95.I couldn't find a 30mm or 32mm objective in affordable price range,sadly. That's why I'm looking Nikon Travelite IV or EX. :-C

Hello OPTIC_NUT,
Thank you for sharing your experience.I'm nearly giving up the monocular staff. I don't want to be in trouble because I have no experience with binoculars or monoculars.

http://nikon.com/products/sportoptics/lineup/binoculars/compact/travel-ex_25/spec.htm Travelite EX has fogproof and waterproof.

http://nikon.com/products/sportoptics/lineup/binoculars/compact/travel-vi_25/index.htm

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/910765-REG/nikon_8245_8x42_aculon_a211.html Nikon Aculon 8x42

I don't know whether Opticron, Leupold or Celestron better than Nikon. Waiting for your comments.

 

[bobhandal]

take a look at the MInox "minoscope" its a 8x25 monocular, small, lightweight, great optics, but it has something that stands out from the crowd, it is a "microscope per say.." it allows you to focus as close as .30 mt , so you can view insects, flowers, snakes, whatever is close to you... quite interesting.

 

[alpse]

take a look at the MInox "minoscope" its a 8x25 monocular, small, lightweight, great optics, but it has something that stands out from the crowd, it is a "microscope per say.." it allows you to focus as close as .30 mt , so you can view insects, flowers, snakes, whatever is close to you... quite interesting.

Hello bobhandal,
Thank you for your reply. I'm going to start with a binocular, After a while I can get a monocular. I will consider your comments. Thank you all friends :king:

 

[falcondude]

You may want to take a look of the zen-Ray ZRS monocular. I got a set for my uncle who absolutely cannot use binoculars due to his medical condition. It is probably one of the best monoculars I have used. Mind you, it is not compact, pocket monocular. It is essentially a half ZRS binoculars. The image quality is amazing. The focuser is on the body, instead of on the eyepiece, which may take a little to get used to it. I got him a 8x for better stability.

http://www.zen-ray.com/shop/monoculars/monohd8x42.html

 

[PeterPS]

The ZRS 8x42 is exactly what I recommended in a previous post. While I agree with you that the ZRS is one of the best monocs out there, I found it much harder to use for birdwatching than a compact 8x25 bin---the latter was in fact cheaper and just a little heavier.
Peter.

 

[Swedpat]

Because a monocular is harder to hold steady than a binocular the magnification should be lower. 6x is good in my opinion. And if you can afford it my tip is Vixen HR 6x21ED. Maybe the best monocular available. I wrote a review of it HERE.

 

[falcondude]

I found that having both eyes open makes it easier to use monocular than keeping one eye shut.

 

[alpse]

Friends, thank you so much for your suggestions and comments. I liked the ZenRay and that Vixen but those are too expensive for me. I'm going to start off with Nikon binoculars for now. Maybe later I can buy a monocular. I noted down those Brands and models.

Loves from Turkey

 

[longboat]

I have the Vortex 10x25 monocular. While the optics are good, the focusing wheel is VERY stiff, to the point of having to use at least two fingers to wrestle it to the correct focus point, unusable when following a moving object. As such, I only use it when I have to, such as packing ultralight (it does fit into a loose pocket easily).

I received it as a non-returnable gift. Had I paid $55 for it, I would have returned it. OTOH, it has overall good reviews online, so maybe i just got a lemon.